5 Practical Diabetic Foot Care Tips You’d Wish You’d Known Sooner

Proper foot health is critical when you have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. If you’ve encountered a couple of problems along the way, you need to ensure you take good care of your feet before a complication occurs. Practicing the tips below can set you on the right track. 

1) Apply Moisturizer to the Feet, But Avoid the Area Between the Toes

You’ve probably heard that you need to inspect the feet daily for redness, nail issues, cuts, and swelling. But, hydrating the skin is equally important. Daily moisturization keeps the dry skin from cracking or itching. However, if you apply moisturizer between the toes, it could encourage a fungal infection. 

2) Wear Slippers When Walking At Home

Avoid walking barefoot to prevent any cuts or scratches. With type 2 diabetes, it is possible that you may need a longer healing time. So, avoiding damaging the skin should be a top priority. If you are not a fan of slippers, then pick socks instead. Changing the socks daily can really come in handy. But, make sure you always put on dry socks. Wet areas are a breeding ground for bacteria. So, keeping the feet nice and dry can offer you that comfort you’ve been looking for. 

3) Keep the Blood Flowing As Much As Possible

Sedentary habits are the new normal. We all prefer to sit down and relax after a long day at work. But, circulation is a key component in healing and normal bodily function. So, if you do decide to put your feet up when you rest, wiggle the toes for a couple of minutes a few times a day to get the blood flow going. Also, try to be physically active when possible. Options like swimming, dancing, and walking are great circulation boosters. 

4) Choose the Right Water Temperature to Wash the Feet

Soak the feet in warm water, not hot water. Warm water is tolerable, provides some level of relief, and relaxes the muscles. Lastly, pat the skin dry. 

5) Don’t Take Matters Into Your Own Hands

You may be tempted to treat calluses and corns all by yourself. But, when you use unsensitized equipment, you may expose the area to bacteria and hurt the spot. Remember, a certified specialist has better odds of treating your problem. We specialize in diabetic foot care and can offer you the results you need. 

If foot ulcers are causing you problems or you need extra help with diabetic foot care, then book an appointment today! Our experts are always at your disposal. We can show you how to overcome every obstacle along the way. We know exactly what you are going through and how to set you on the right path to avoiding serious damage to the ankles or feet.